Preparing for the Challenge
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has addressed concerns regarding the intense heat in North America ahead of the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup semi-final match against Brazilian side Fluminense. Despite the challenging mid-afternoon conditions and some notable absences from the squad, Maresca remains confident in his team’s ability to adapt and perform.
The match is set to take place at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey at 3:00 pm local time (1900 GMT), where temperatures are expected to be a significant factor. However, Maresca is not worried about the weather, emphasizing that the team is ready to face any challenge.
“I don’t think it’s just tomorrow’s game. Like other teams, we have already played in different conditions. The game is tomorrow at 3pm and so all we can do is adapt and try to win,” Maresca said during a press conference on Monday.
Squad Adjustments
Chelsea will be without key players due to suspensions and injuries. Striker Liam Delap and defender Levi Colwill are both suspended, while midfielder Romeo Lavia is still recovering from an injury. However, there are positive developments as Moises Caicedo returns from suspension, and forward Nicolas Jackson is available after serving a red card suspension from the previous match against Flamengo. New signing Joao Pedro is also pushing for a starting position.
Facing a Strong Opponent
Fluminense, who won the 2023 Copa Libertadores, will be Chelsea’s third Brazilian opponent in the tournament after facing Flamengo and Palmeiras earlier. The team is led by former Chelsea player Thiago Silva, adding an extra layer of significance to the match.
Maresca acknowledged the challenges posed by Fluminense, stating, “The first two were very good with lots and lots of energy. Tomorrow, no doubt, it will be exactly the same.”
Fluminense’s Ambitions
Fluminense manager Renato Portaluppi has expressed his team’s determination to make history in the Club World Cup, despite financial constraints compared to European clubs. He emphasized that football is decided on the pitch, regardless of financial differences.
“We are up against powerful opponents with a financial advantage, but football is decided on the pitch. Fluminense’s finances do not make 10 percent of those of the other clubs, but that doesn’t mean we can’t get to the final or even win the Club World Cup,” Portaluppi said.
Looking Ahead
As the match approaches, both teams are focused on their strategies and preparations. Chelsea aims to leverage their experience and adaptability, while Fluminense seeks to prove that they can compete with the best. The outcome of this semi-final could significantly impact the trajectory of both teams in the tournament.
